Cancer Revolution: Science, Innovation and Hope is a groundbreaking new exhibition at Stephen's Green Shopping Centre

A powerful new exhibition examining the reality of cancer in Ireland has taken up residence in Dublin’s Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre. 

Devised by Breakthrough Cancer Research, a leading Irish medical research charity focused on the hardest-to-treat cancers, the pop-up exhibition explores the deeply human stories behind the statistics and the science shaping the future of cancer care in Ireland.

‘Cancer Revolution: Science, Innovation and Hope’ tells the story of cancer from its earliest documentation to the groundbreaking science shaping cancer care now and into the future.

Visitors to the museum have the opportunity to view fossil records showing that cancer has been around for so long, it even affected dinosaurs.

They will also learn about Francis Rynd, a Dublin physician who, in 1844, performed the world’s first subcutaneous injection – a breakthrough that led to the invention of the hypodermic needle, changing medicine forever.

The immersive experience also offers the opportunity to experience the complexity of tumours close-up through a three-metre large scale tumour 3D installation created especially for the exhibition.

At its heart, however, the exhibition is about the people all over Ireland whose lives have been irrevocably shaped by cancer – survivors, scientists, clinicians and families who have lost someone they loved.

For each of them, cancer is not just a diagnosis – it’s a story of strength, heartbreak, discovery, and for some, survival.

From a knitted doll gifted to a child undergoing treatment, to the walking poles used to complete the Camino after a diagnosis, these stories offer a rare glimpse into the human side of cancer and the strength of those who continue to battle the disease every day.

Science, Innovation and Hope

With cancer now the leading cause of death in Ireland and rates continuing to rise, this exhibition comes at a critical moment.

While science races forward with key breakthroughs in immunotherapy, early detection and precision medicine, the gap between innovation and access continues to grow.

The exhibition features fascinating insights into groundbreaking scientific progress and transformational new treatments.

With patients in some parts of the country facing long waiting lists or limited access to new treatments, the exhibition is a portrait of a nation struggling to confront a disease that touches every family.

It's a story of where we are, how far we've come and the revolution in science and compassion that might just save lives.

Resilience

At its heart, it’s a tribute to the resilience of the Irish people.

Cancer Revolution: Science, Innovation and Hope is now open at St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre in Dublin.

Book your free tickets today and learn about how cancer is touching lives all across Ireland – and how science is helping more people not just survive cancer, but live well beyond it.